At the India TV 'She' Conclave event, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta spoke about leadership, governance, and the growing role of women in public life. During the conversation with India TV, Gupta highlighted the importance of women's participation in decision-making and emphasised that empowering women is key to building a stronger and more inclusive society. She also spoke about the need to create opportunities that allow women to lead and contribute across sectors.
Speaking about the journey of Indian women, Rekha Gupta said that many women often turn down major opportunities due to responsibilities and expectations placed upon them. She noted that several women make personal sacrifices in order to balance family and professional commitments. Gupta also highlighted the multiple roles women play in society, particularly within families. She said women often take on the responsibility of caring for everyone around them, ensuring the well-being of their families while also managing professional duties. Talking about societal expectations, the Delhi Chief Minister said women willingly take responsibility for household work and family care, often performing these roles with dedication and pride.
'My political journey began like a foggy winter morning'
Talking about her political journey, Gupta said her path in politics started with uncertainty. "My journey has been like a foggy winter morning, where everything is covered in mist. At that time, I did not know what my destination was or which path I would eventually take," she said. She recalled that when she first contested a college election, the environment around student politics was quite intense. Gupta said her mother was initially hesitant about her entering politics and often questioned how such a career would affect her future. However, she credited her father for encouraging and supporting her aspirations.
Gupta said her father's support played a crucial role in shaping her journey and added that she still misses him deeply. She also spoke about her mother's continued care and concern, saying that even today her mother reminds her to take care of herself.
'Leadership and politics have long been male-coded'
Speaking about leadership in politics, Gupta said that politics has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated field. However, she added that the situation is gradually changing as more women step forward and create space for themselves. According to her, women today are making their presence felt not only in politics but across different sectors, proving their capabilities and leadership skills.
Speaking about the unique qualities women bring to leadership, Rekha Gupta said women often lead with empathy and compassion. According to her, these qualities help bring a human touch to decision-making. Gupta noted that women are naturally compassionate and tend to approach situations with sensitivity and understanding. She said this perspective allows them to look beyond rigid calculations while making decisions. She added that governance and leadership are not always about straightforward formulas. "You cannot always treat everything as a simple equation where two plus two equals four," she said, explaining that decision-making often requires considering different perspectives and circumstances.
According to Gupta, this human approach helps leaders make more balanced and thoughtful decisions that take into account the real challenges people face in their daily lives.
Sushma Swaraj remains her role model
Gupta also spoke about her inspirations in public life and said former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has always been a role model for her. She praised Swaraj's leadership style and the way she connected with people while serving in public life. Speaking about her admiration, Rekha Gupta said Swaraj had a unique personality that combined grace with strength. She noted that Swaraj was as gentle in her demeanour as she was strong in her convictions, making her a beloved figure in Indian politics. According to Gupta, Sushma Swaraj continues to remain an icon for women in the field of politics and public leadership.
Rekha Gupta on women's empowerment
Talking about women's empowerment, Gupta said that despite social progress, many women are still forced to live in difficult domestic circumstances where they are denied their basic rights. She emphasised that financial independence and self-reliance are crucial for women to live with dignity. According to her, every woman should have the opportunity to stand on her own feet and build a life where she can make independent choices.
Gupta added that empowering women is essential for building a stronger and more equitable society.
On being chosen as Chief Minister
Speaking about the moment she was chosen for the top post, Rekha Gupta said the news came as a surprise to her. She said that after winning the MLA election, she was content and had left everything to faith. Gupta recalled that she first saw the news about her possible selection on television. She said she had not received any phone call regarding the decision and that leaders were asking each other about the development.
According to her, the confirmation came during the meeting of the legislative party. Gupta said she accepted the responsibility with humility and gratitude.
Rekha Gupta's message for women and families
Sharing a message for women, Gupta said that her journey proves that determination and hard work can help anyone achieve their goals. She said that if a daughter from an ordinary family like hers can reach such a position, then other women can also achieve their dreams. Gupta encouraged women to stay dedicated to their work and continue moving forward with commitment and perseverance. She emphasised that consistent effort and belief in one's abilities can open new paths for women in every field. Rekha shared a message to families of women as well: "We are in a new era, in which we must push our daughters forward. I want to ask mothers to give their daughters the chance to achieve all their dreams."
Speaking about the women's safety concerns, Gupta asked families to teach their sons the dos and don'ts.
The event, organised by India TV, celebrates inspiring women from different fields who continue to redefine their professions and drive meaningful change in society.
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